13768 Swiss Valley Road | Peosta, IA 52068 | 563.556.6745

Enjoy the peaceful surroundings! This multi-use area is for hiking, biking, running, jogging, cross-country skiing or snowmobiling on the trail. Trail is up to 26 miles long and is perfect for beginners because there are not many hills. Call ahead for trail conditions.

8991 Bellevue Heights | Dubuque, IA 52003 | 563.556.0620

The Mesquakie were the earliest known inhabitants of the Mines of Spain Area. Their village was located at the mouth of the Catfish Creek. The Mesquakie carried on a fur trade with French voyagers. They also worked the lead mines for many decades before the Revolutionary War. Mounds, village sites, rock shelters, trading post sites and campsites dot the landscape. Julien Dubuque is believed to be the first European to settle on what is now Iowa soil in 1788. In 1796, Dubuque received a land grant from the Governor of Spain to work the land. The grant specified that the 189-square mile area to be named as the "Mines of Spain." The park is designated as the Julien Dubuque Mines National Historic Landmark as a Silos and Smokestacks Heritage Area Partner Site, State Preserve, National Recreational Trails, Important Birding Area, and Watchable Iowa Wildlife Area. Groomed for both in-line and skate skiing. Five miles of trails full of wildlife and beautiful scenery. Call ahead for conditions. Canoe or kayak Catfish Creek which runs through the park. Launch at the Catfish Creek canoe access and paddle toward the main channel of the Mississippi River or paddle through the park and enjoy the back waters of the Mississippi.

13606 Swiss Valley Road | Peosta, IA 52068 | 563.556.6745

The Swiss Valley Nature Preserve and Center is located one mile from the park. This 476 acre preserve features an interpretive center, hiking trails and trout fishing. The Swiss Valley Nature Preserve is a very popular cross country skiing destination. We have 4 miles of groomed ski trails.

1878 Old Mission Road | Harpers Ferry, IA 52146 | 563.535.7314

Howard and Donna Bright are the owners and your host and hostess at The Natural Gait. Their philosophy is a natural way of living in harmony with nature. With this vision in mind they created the Ion Inn and The Natural Gait. Their vision includes their understanding of people, horses, and all that nature has to offer. With the building of these beautiful cabins, the Ion Inn, the Mule-Tel, camping sites, and much more, you can now share in this experience. They hope that you will come and experience the magic of The Natural Gait and Ion Inn.